Portion size. When light-colored foods are served on light-colored plates, portion sizes appear smaller. Try using black dinner plates to provide a contrast with your food, thus encouraging smaller portions and less eating.
Get some sleep. Skimping on sleep leads to poor food choices by altering the levels of two hormones, ghrelin and leptin, that control appetite. High ghrelin levels and low leptin levels are known to stimulate appetite, increase desire for high-calorie foods, and ramp up fat storage. The effect can last up to 24 hours.
Sip tea. Green and black tea provide a healthy dose of flavonoids, which help prevent and repair cell damage that can lead to cancer and other health problems. In addition, drinking two cups of tea a day may help maintain heart health.
Improve your memory. The seven best memory-boosting foods are: blueberries, coffee, eggs, grape juice or wine, olive oil, soybeans, and turmeric, according to “The Best Things You Can Eat” by registered dietitian Dave Grotto.
Help your kids become more healthful eaters. When your kids make better food choices, chances are you will, too. Take them shopping for groceries, let them help in the kitchen, and encourage them to try new foods.
Cut the salt. Try using spices, heart-healthy oils and vinegars instead of salt, to add flavor to your recipes.
This article originally appeared as on American Profile